The Customs of Dragon Boat Festival

The Dragon Boat Festival, also known as Duanwu Festival, is a traditional Chinese holiday that has been celebrated for over 2,000 years. It falls on the fifth day of the fifth month of the lunar calendar, which usually falls in June. The festival is known for its exciting dragon boat races, delicious sticky rice dumplings, and ancient customs that have been passed down through generations.

One of the most intriguing customs of the Dragon Boat Festival is the racing of dragon boats. These long, narrow boats are decorated like dragons and are manned by a team of rowers. The races are held on rivers, lakes, and even the open sea, attracting thousands of spectators who come to cheer for their favorite teams. The rhythmic sound of the drumbeat and the synchronized paddling of the rowers create an exhilarating atmosphere that is truly captivating.

Another highlight of the festival is the consumption of sticky rice dumplings, also known as zongzi. These pyramid-shaped dumplings are made by wrapping glutinous rice with bamboo leaves and filling them with various ingredients such as meat, beans, and nuts. The dumplings are then steamed or boiled, giving them a sticky texture and a rich, savory flavor. Eating zongzi during the Dragon Boat Festival is believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck and protection.

In addition to dragon boat races and zongzi, the Dragon Boat Festival is also known for its ancient customs. One such custom is the hanging of pouches filled with herbs and medicinal plants on doors and windows. These pouches, known as xiong bao, are believed to ward off evil spirits and protect the household from illness and misfortune. Another custom is the wearing of colorful silk threads, which are believed to bring good luck and fortune.

The Dragon Boat Festival is not only a time for celebration but also a time to remember and honor the great poet Qu Yuan. Qu Yuan was a patriotic poet and statesman who lived during the Warring States period in ancient China. He drowned himself in the Miluo River as a form of protest against the corrupt government. People throw zongzi into the river to prevent fish from eating his body and to commemorate his sacrifice.

In conclusion, the Dragon Boat Festival is a fascinating holiday that is filled with exciting customs and traditions. From the thrilling dragon boat races to the delicious zongzi and the ancient customs that have been passed down through generations, this festival is a true spectacle. It is a time to celebrate, remember, and honor the rich cultural heritage of China.